The Toyota Tundra is the established Japanese automaker’s answer to the likes of the Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, and GMC Sierra.
But as with these other contenders in the pickup category, the Tundra also has its own set of requirements and compatibility when it comes to the type of gas that it uses.
Hence, if you fancy getting a Toyota Tundra yourself, then it’s worth familiarizing the types of gas that it can and cannot use, and we’ve prepared just the perfect guide for you on that below!
What kind of gas does a Toyota Tundra take?
All Toyota Tundra models can take unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87.
All Toyota Tundra models can also take up to 10 or 15% ethanol (E-10/E-15) depending on the model year, while Flex-Fuel models equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 can take up to 85% ethanol (E-85).
It should be simple enough to keep in mind what type of gasoline the Toyota Tundra needs, as every single model has been designed to take just regular 87-octane.
This means that you don’t need to shell out several bucks more per month for premium gasoline.
However, this is just the minimum requirement that we’re talking about. There are still other things about the Toyota Tundra’s compatibility with different fuel types worth discussing.
Such things can be in the form of ethanol or E-85/Flex-Fuel compatibility, and even more specific types of gasoline blends and additives that you shouldn’t be putting in your Toyota Tundra’s gas tank.
Thus, we’ll be going into more detail about the Toyota Tundra’s fuel requirements and fuel compatibility one generation and engine option at a time.
Toyota Tundra Fuel Requirements by Generation and Engine Option
All generations of the Toyota Tundra require at least 87-octane unleaded gasoline.
2000 to 2014 Tundra models can take E-10 fuel (10% ethanol), while 2015 models and newer can take E-15 (15% ethanol). Only 2009 and newer 5.7-liter V8 Tundra models can take E-85/Flex-Fuel.
1st-Generation Toyota Tundra (XK30/XK40) (2000 to 2006)
| Engine Option | Minimum Fuel Requirement |
| 3.4L 5VZ-FE V6(2000 to 2004) | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular)(E-10 Capable) |
| 4.0L 1GR-FE V6(2005 to 2006) | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular)(E-10 Capable) |
| 4.7L 2UZ-FE i-Force V8(2000 to 2006) | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular)(E-10 Capable) |
The very first Toyota Tundra debuted in 1999 for the 2000 model year in the US as the successor to The Toyota T100 pickup truck.
Weirdly enough, the prototype of the 1st-gen Tundra was called the “T150” but was then ditched shortly afterward for being too obviously similar in name to another certain popular American truck.
For its very first model year, the 1st-gen Toyota Tundra sported either a 3.4-liter V6 base engine or a bigger 4.7-liter “i-Force” V8 engine, both of which require 87-octane gasoline.
The 3.4-liter V6 was retired for the Tundra in 2004, while a bigger 4-liter V6 came into the picture and took its place the following year with the same minimum octane requirement.
In addition, all 1st-gen Toyota Tundra models are capable of taking gasoline with up to 10% ethanol content, or E-10.
2nd-Generation Toyota Tundra (XK50) (2007 to 2021)
| Engine Option | Minimum Fuel Requirement |
| 4.0L 1GR-FE VVT-i V6(2007 to 2010) | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular)(E-10 Capable) |
| 4.0L 1GR-FE Dual VVT-i V6(2011 to 2013) | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular)(E-10 Capable) |
| 4.7L 2UZ-FE VVT-i V8(2007 to 2009) | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular)(E-10 Capable) |
| 4.6L 1UR-FE VVT-i V8(2010 to 2019) | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular)(E-15 Capable for 2015 and Newer) |
| 5.7L 3UR-FE VVT-i V8(2007 to 2021) | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular)(E-85/Flex-Fuel Capable for 2009 Onwards) |
The 2nd-generation Toyota Tundra, under the “XK50” designation, had by far the longest production run out of any Tundra generation.
As you would expect from any reputable automaker, Toyota gave the 2nd-gen Tundra tons of updates and refreshes over the years, which of course, included its engine lineup.
2007 to 2009 (Pre-Facelift)
2nd-gen Toyota Tundra models belonging to the 2007 to 2009 model years are considered the “pre-facelift” models, according to Carbuzz’s list.
2007 to 2009 Tundra models had three choices of engines, the first two of which are a base 4-liter V6 and a bigger 4.7-liter V8.
The top-of-the-line engine trim came in the form of a 5.7-liter 3UR-FE V8, which made 381 hp and was offered until the end of the 2nd-gen Tundra’s model year run in 2021.
In addition, the 5.7-liter V8 option was equipped with E-85/Flex-Fuel capability for the 2009 model year, making it the only Toyota Tundra model that can take as much as 85% ethanol blended in gasoline.
All of these engines are equipped with Toyota’s VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence) technology and can take 87-octane gas.
2010 to 2013 (Refresh)
The Toyota Tundra received its first set of major updates in 2010, one of which was a change in the engine lineup.
The previous base 4-liter V6 engine was replaced with a dual-VVT-i version that bumped its power up from 236 hp to 270 hp.
Furthermore, the previous 4.7-liter V8 was also replaced by a slightly smaller but more powerful 4.6-liter V8 for the 2011 model year.
Despite the better performance figures that these engines give out, they still only require 87-octane gasoline all the same.
2014 to 2021 (Facelift)
Toyota Tundra models released for the 2014 model year underwent a facelift in both the aesthetics and performance department.
Apart from the larger grills, different exterior lights, and new suspension tuning, the facelifted 2nd-gen Tundra also dropped the base 4-liter V6 engine in 2015.
This left the 4.6-liter V8 and the 5.7-liter V8 as the only two engine options until the former also met the same fate in 2020.
As a result, the 5.7-liter V8 was the only engine option that was offered for the 2nd-gen Tundra at the end of its production run in 2021 while still keeping both its 87-octane gasoline requirement and E85/Flex-Fuel capability.
3rd-Generation Toyota Tundra (XK70) (2022 to 2023/Present)
| Engine Option | Minimum Fuel Requirement |
| 3.4L V35A-FTS V6 Twin Turbo | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular) |
| 3.4L V35A-FTS V6 Twin Turbo Hybrid(i-Force Max hybrid drivetrain) | 87-Octane Gasoline (Regular) |
The 3rd and newest generation of the Toyota Tundra just started its production run last December 2021 under the “XK70” code, and prospective buyers have choices of two new and improved powerplants for the truck.
Toyota chooses to equip the all-new 2022/2023 Tundra with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 with the engine code “V35A-FTS”.
This is also the exact engine code used for the “i-Force Max” hybrid version of the engine, which is now your second engine of choice.
Both of the 3rd-gen Toyota Tundra’s engine options require at least 87-octane gasoline. So far, there are no models currently offered with E85/Flex-Fuel capability.
There’s also news that a diesel engine option is in the works for the 2023 Toyota Tundra, according to an article by Pickup Truck News.
However, Toyota itself has not given any updates regarding a diesel-powered Tundra, so we barely have any details regarding its exact specifications, let alone its fuel requirements.
But one thing is certain, and that is if a diesel option for the Toyota Tundra ever does get released, gasoline should be the last thing you would ever think of putting in it.
Types of Gasoline/Fuel That Can Be Used in a Toyota Tundra
Toyota recommends filling up the Toyota Tundra with TOP TIER detergent gasoline for its engine-cleaning benefits.
Other compatible fuel types for the Toyota Tundra include reformulated gasoline, E-15 (15% ethanol), and E-85/Flex-Fuel (Flex-Fuel models only).
TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline (Toyota’s Recommendation)
Toyota’s number one recommendation when it comes to fuel for the Tundra pickup truck is non-other than TOP TIER detergent gasoline.
Not only does the manufacturer recommend TOP TIER gasoline for just about any of its modern vehicle models, but other major car brands and fuel brands actually recognize the TOP TIER formulation’s engine-cleaning capability.
Fuels with the TOP TIER formulation contain a higher concentration of detergent additives compared to non-TOP TIER fuels.
Such detergent additives have been found to protect your engine from the buildup of debris and deposits safely and effectively, which is a great way to maintain optimal engine performance for longer.
There are currently over 60 TOP TIER fuel brands across the US and Canada, and you may be able to spot one at your local gas pump by looking for the “TOP TIER” label.
Reformulated Gasoline
Reformulated gasoline is considered a more modern and cleaner-burning alternative to conventional gasoline, and the good news is that it’s also compatible with the Toyota Tundra alongside many other vehicle models.
Reformulated gasoline or RFG is made up of less toxic ingredients, resulting in less carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and other air toxins being emitted into the environment.
This is why reformulated gasoline is highly recommended and, in some instances, even mandated in places that have higher levels of air pollution and smog.
About 30% of all gasoline sold in the US is reformulated gasoline, according to the EPA, which makes it a relatively common type of fuel that works well in reducing emissions from just about any gasoline-powered vehicle on the road.
Up to 10 or 15% Ethanol (E-10/E-15)
The use of gasoline containing ethanol is applicable to the Toyota Tundra, though just how much ethanol content you can use in it will depend on the model year.
After painstakingly sifting through every single model year’s owner’s manual for the Toyota Tundra, we’ve found that models from 2000 until 2014 can take up to 10% ethanol at most.
It was in the 2015 Toyota Tundra model that the manufacturer decided to make the switch to E-15 capability, which is gasoline blended with up to 15% ethanol this time around.
This E-15 capability also applies to the 3rd-gen Toyota Tundra “XK70” models.
Make sure to not go past these ethanol percentages for the Toyota Tundra, as too much ethanol can corrode the metal components of your engine and fuel system.
E-10 or E-15-capable vehicles will usually come equipped with a black fuel cap with the corresponding ethanol limits printed on it, as shown below.
E-85/Flex-Fuel (Flex-Fuel Models Only)
Throughout the Toyota Tundra’s entire production run, there’s only one engine option that has been given the “Flex-Fuel” treatment, and that is the 5.7-liter 3UR-FE V8 of the 2nd-gen model.
However, take note that E-85/Flex-Fuel capability for the 5.7-liter V8 only started for the 2009 model year, so 2nd-gen models from 2007 and 2008 only come with E-15 capability at most.
Unlike non-FFVs (Flex-Fuel Vehicles) that have black fuel caps, FFVs such as the 2009 and newer 5.7-liter V8 Toyota Tundra will come with a special yellow fuel cap that indicates its capability of using E-85, or gasoline with up to 85% ethanol.
Types of Gasoline/Fuel to Avoid for the Toyota Tundra
Avoid filling up the Toyota Tundra with gasoline containing MMT, leaded gasoline, diesel or biodiesel, and gasoline lower than 87-octane.
Gasoline Containing MMT (Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl)
Toyota, just like the majority of automakers, does not recommend the use of gasoline blended with MMT for the Toyota Tundra and many of its other models.
MMT is a manganese-based additive that has been primarily used as an octane booster in gasoline, but it has since been banned in most places because of its downsides.
Such downsides include the production of more toxic emissions and the risk of damaging your spark plugs and other emission system components.
In short, the pros of MMT in gasoline do not outweigh its cons. Needless to say, not a single drop of it should ever be used in an everyday vehicle like the Toyota Tundra.
Leaded Gasoline
According to the Toyota Tundra’s owner’s manual, leaded gasoline should not be used for the vehicle, as it can damage its 3-way catalytic converters and cause the entire emission control system to become faulty.
While not all cars necessarily have this type of catalytic converter setup, it is a known fact that leaded gasoline has already been phased out worldwide and is not really used anymore for any sort of land transportation (save for some motorsports).
Diesel/Biodiesel
As of March 2023, the Toyota Tundra has yet to be released in diesel form, so it’s pretty easy to connect the dots and not use any sort of diesel or biodiesel fuel for it.
Accidentally putting diesel in any gasoline-powered will clog up your fuel system components, as diesel fuel is just too thick and dense to flow properly in a system meant for gasoline (petrol).
If not remedied right away, the gummed-up diesel inside your engine will eventually cause it to seize.
| You shouldn’t attempt to drive the vehicle again after accidentally putting in diesel. Instead, call for a towing service and have them bring it to the nearest mechanic for proper drainage and repairs. |
What will happen if I use the wrong type of gas?
Using the wrong gas type, such as fuel with too low of an octane rating than what your vehicle requires can lead to engine knock, reduced engine performance, and potential damage to various engine components.
Why do I hear a knocking noise from the engine after refueling?
An engine knocking noise after refueling may indicate that you’ve put in the wrong type of fuel or the fuel has been contaminated.
However, other issues like incorrect air-fuel ratio or improper ignition timing can also cause the knocking noise, so be sure to have it properly diagnosed by a mechanic.
Does the Toyota Tundra get good gas mileage?
The Toyota Tundra manages to achieve 20/24 mpg (city/highway) with the newest hybrid engine, which is a big improvement compared to earlier-gen Tundra models.
The 3rd-gen Toyota Tundra’s gas mileage is on par with competitors like the V6-powered Ford F-150 models.
Toyota Tundra Gas Mileage Per Generation
The Toyota Tundra can achieve a combined gas mileage of 14 to 16 mpg for 1st-gen models, 10 to 18 mpg for 2nd-gen models, and 19 to 22 mpg for 3rd-gen models.
1st-Generation Toyota Tundra Gas Mileage (XK30/40) (2000 to 2006)
| Engine Option | MPG (City) | MPG (Highway) | MPG (Combined) |
| 3.4L 5VZ-FE V6 (2WD) | 15 mpg | 18 mpg | 16 mpg |
| 3.4L 5VZ-FE V6 (4WD) | 14 to 15 mpg | 16 to 18 mpg | 15 to 16 mpg |
| 4.0L 1GR-FE V6 (2WD only) | 14 to 16 mpg | 19 to 20 mpg | 16 to 18 mpg |
| 4.7L 2UZ-FE i-Force V8 | 13 to 14 mpg | 16 to 17 mpg | 14 to 15 mpg |
2nd-Generation Toyota Tundra Gas Mileage (XK50) (2007 to 2021)
| Engine Option | MPG (City) | MPG (Highway) | MPG (Combined) |
| 4.0L 1GR-FE VVT-i V6(2007 to 2010) | 15 mpg | 19 mpg | 16 to 17 mpg |
| 4.0L 1GR-FE Dual VVT-i V6(2011 to 2013) | 16 mpg | 20 mpg | 17 to 18 mpg |
| 4.7L 2UZ-FE VVT-i V8(2007 to 2009) | 13 to 14 mpg | 16 to 17 mpg | 15 mpg |
| 4.6L 1UR-FE VVT-i V8(2010 to 2019) | 14 to 15 mpg | 18 to 20 mpg | 16 to 17 mpg |
| 5.7L 3UR-FE VVT-i V8 (2WD)(2007 to 2021) | 13 to 14 mpg | 17 to 19 mpg | 15 to 16 mpg |
| 5.7L 3UR-FE VVT-i V8 (4WD)(2007 to 2021) | 13 mpg | 17 mpg | 14 to 15 mpg |
| 5.7L 3UR-FE VVT-i V8 (E-85/Flex-Fuel)(2009 Onwards) | 9 to 10 mpg | 12 to 13 mpg | 10 to 11 mpg |
3rd-Generation Toyota Tundra Gas Mileage (XK70) (2022 to 2023/Present)
| Engine Option | MPG (City) | MPG (Highway) | MPG (Combined) |
| 3.4L V35A-FTS V6 Twin Turbo (2WD) | 18 to 20 mpg | 23 to 24 mpg | 20 to 22 mpg |
| 3.4L V35A-FTS V6 Twin Turbo (4WD) | 17 to 19 mpg | 22 to 23 mpg | 19 to 20 mpg |
| 3.4L V35A-FTS V6 Twin Turbo(4WD PRO) | 18 mpg | 20 mpg | 19 mpg |
| 3.4L V35A-FTS V6 Twin Turbo Hybrid | 18 to 20 mpg | 20 to 24 mpg | 22 mpg |
What is the gas tank size/capacity of the Toyota Tundra?
The Toyota Tundra has a gas tank size of 26.4 gallons (100 liters) for 1st-gen models, 26.4 to 38 gallons (100 to 143.8 liters) for 2nd-gen models, and 22.5 to 32.2 gallons (85.2 to 122 liters) for 3rd-gen models.
| Toyota TundraGeneration/Model Years | Trim Level | Gas Tank Size/Capacity (US Gallon/Liter) |
1st Generation (XK30/XK40)(2000 to 2006) | All SR5 Trims | 26.4 gal (100 l) |
| All Limited Trims | 26.4 gal (100 l) | |
| 2-Door Regular Cab | 26.4 gal (100 l) | |
| 4-Door Access Cab | 26.4 gal (100 l) | |
| 4-Door Double Cab | 26.4 gal (100 l) | |
| Darrell Waltrip Edition | 26.4 gal (100 l) | |
2nd Generation (XK50)(2007 to 2021) | All 2007 to 2015 Trims | 26.4 gal (100 l) |
| All SR Trims(2016 to 2021) | 26.4 gal (100 l) | |
| All Limited Trims(2016 to 2021) | 38 gal (143.8 l) | |
| All Platinum Trims(2016 to 2021) | 38 gal (143.8 l) | |
| All 1794 Edition Trims(2016 to 2021) | 38 gal (143.8 l) | |
| All TRD Pro Trims(2016 to 2021) | 38 gal (143.8 l) | |
| All Other 2016 to 2021 Trims | 26.4 gal or 38 gal(100 l or 143.8 l) | |
3rd Generation (XK70)(2022 to 2023/Present) | All SR Double Cab Trims | 22.5 gal (85.2 l) |
| All SR CrewMax Trims | 22.5 gal (85.2 l) | |
| SR5 CrewMax 5.5’(2WD/4WD) | 22.5 gal (85.2 l) | |
| SR5 Double Cab SB | 22.5 gal (85.2 l) | |
| SR5 Double Cab LB (4WD) | 22.5 gal (85.2 l) | |
| SR5 Double Cab LB (2WD) | 32.2 gal (122 l) | |
| SR5 Crewmax SB 6.5’(2WD/4WD) | 32.2 gal (122 l) | |
| All Limited CrewMax Trims | 32.2 gal (122 l) | |
| All Limited Double Cab Trims | 32.2 gal (122 l) | |
| All 1794 Edition Trims | 32.2 gal (122 l) | |
| All Platinum Trims | 32.2 gal (122 l) | |
| TRD Pro CrewMax SB 5.5’(4WD) | 32.2 gal (122 l) | |
| Capstone CrewMax SB 5.5(4WD) | 32.2 gal (122 l) |
How much does it cost to fill up a Toyota Tundra?
It will cost $91.3 to fill up a 1st-gen Toyota Tundra (26.4-gal tank), $91.3 to $131.4 for a 2nd-gen model (26.4 to 38-gal tank), and $111.3 for a 3rd-gen model (32.2-gal tank) at $3.457/gallon (US national average regular gas price).
Toyota Tundra Generation | Gas Tank Size | Cost to Fill Up (Current US National Average Price) |
| 1st Generation(2000 to 2006) | 26.4 gallons | $91.3 |
| 2nd Generation(2007 to 2021) | 26.4 gallons/38 gallons | $91.3 to $131.4 |
| 3rd Generation(2022 to 2023/Present) | 32.2 gallons | $111.3 |
